Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

It really depends on what type of safari you have chosen. In any case, the following is recommended: Flashlight; Sunglasses, Sun hat; Insect repellent; Binoculars; Camera with zoom lenses; Spare film and batteries; Towel, Toiletries; Long sleeved shirt; Long trousers; Warm sweater; Sleeping bag for campers; Small daypack.

Contrary to beliefs, it does not rain all day long; rain showers are usually in the evenings, during the night and in the early mornings. Normally, it does not influence the tours and game viewing. If you are planning to go on a basic camping safari, be prepared for the rains, and bring water-proof gear. Tents are waterproof and can stand heavy showers.

It is important to follow the park regulations. The guide is not allowed to drive off the tracks to approach animals. Normally, the guide should keep a distance of at least 25 meters from the animals; however, some animals actually come near vehicles or stay close to the tracks. So, you will most likely get up close with the wildlife, sometimes close enough to reach out the animals. Remember that the parks are not Zoos, animals are not tamed and close encounters can be dangerous! It is much better to stick to your cameras!

This is in fact dependant on your itinerary! If you would like to see as many attractions as possible and are limited in time, you will be spending more time on transfers between the parks compared to longer itineraries. And one more thing, the game viewing in the national parks can be done only within the park opening hours, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.!

All our prices are quoted in US dollars (USD) per person and in general consist of entrance fees, rescue fees, camping/hut/lodge costs, full board/a cook, bottled water, English speaking guide, 4WD vehicle, camping equipment, unlimited game viewing within park opening hours, if not stated otherwise under a specific tour.

Items of personal nature (e.g.) toiletries, phone calls, souvenirs, beer, cigarettes etc.), medical and personal insurance, and tipping to the crew are not included in our prices.

No. You can film and photograph as much as you want, so remember to bring spare batteries and film. But note that most likely you will be asked to pay if you take pictures of the locals. However, professional TV crews need to apply for special filming permits. Contact us for additional information.

Certainly you can go on your own private Loge safari. If you decide for a basic camping option you will definitely be accompanied with your driver guide and a cook. But please note that the price is dependent on the number of people on a tour.

Yes, in most town Hotels you can leave behind what you don't need on safari; but on condition, that you return to the same hotel afterwards. If you wish, you can also leave the excess luggage in our office.

Inside or outside the parks, you can choose from different types of accommodation - from campsites and budget lodges, semi-luxury tented camps to top-end lodges and exclusive luxury tented camps. It actually depends on your budget, and the selected type of your tour.

The cost for the Visa are per person in US dollars. Please note that Ethiopia Tourist visa is US$ 50 – per person and you can obtain it at all entry border posts or at the International airports in Ethiopia upon arrival or from the Ethiopia Embassy in your home country.

It means the best possible value for your tour dollar. "Private" means that, for a minimum of (those guests in your own private party with whom you have booked), you comprise the entire tour group. Even if Ethioder Tours and Travel has more than one group beginning the same tour on the same day, you are not combined. Not only does this eliminate the hassles and the scheduling is geared totally to your convenience. The tour begins and ends on the days of your choice, and can be modified throughout to suit your particular preferences. "Escorted" means hassle-free. We've done the logistical planning, we get you safely, comfortably and most conveniently from one point of interest to the next, and we provide a professional guide who's there to make sure that your experience in his/her country is the experience you've traveled there to enjoy. Our guides are highly trained professionals with excellent English and warm, out-going personalities? Who will delight in answering your every questions.

When you book directly, you are assured of the highest quality vacation or holiday. We take time to get to know our guests a bit so personalized service comes naturally. We work very closely with our in-country associates, hotels and camps and we stay informed of the latest changes and situations which can occur in this part of the world. Our business arrangements are impeccable so they heartily welcome our clients because they know that all financial arrangements are secure, Ethioder Tours and Travel guests are usually at the top of the list for upgrades and special services. Our clients are similarly secure.

As soon as you are definite on your desire for your adventure in Africa you should make your booking. There are several reasons for doing so, the most important of which is getting the flights you want at the lowest price. Seasonality, and the resultant filling of aircraft seats, varies depending not only on when you are going but also where you are going and your routing. At the time of booking/reservations, you will need to send us a deposit 45% of total costs, to secure your bookings via a bank transfer.

Certainly, subject to cancellation and change provisions of our suppliers. We are able to make one set of changes without fees (on our part) and do our best to avoid cancellation penalties from suppliers. Small charges are sometimes imposed for additional changes depending on the complexity of the change.

We maintain this Web site specifically for our guests with up to the minute information on all our destinations. The site has such essentials as currency, essential travel information like tipping guidelines and practicalities specific to that destination. And your Sales Counselor is always very happy to answer any questions not covered in this Site information.